Even with recent repaving, there is still not a crosswalk here. This is a bust for middle school at 7AM, this is also m banned by a crossing guard for the elementary hours which indicates it is a high traffic crossing spot. Im not sure what is required to have this addressed, but would welcome some input as I don't feel it should be ignored as it has.

Kristin,

Thanks for you input.
Mid-block crosswalks can be and most of the times are very controversial. It is still legal to cross a road without marked lines if you greater than 300 feet from a marked crosswalk. Studies have shown that marked crosswalks alone have no added safety benefit. And in some cases can be less safe.
There are many factors that need to be considered for mid-block crosswalks. Use, sight distance, lighting are the major topics. You can always send me more thoughts here or on my email. sfrederick@chicopeema.gov.

What about this is " mid block"?? Im not asking for a place he can " legally" cross. Im asking for a basic safety measure that already existed to be replaced. It is law for cars to stop for a pedestrian in crosswalk. This is an intersection. Perhaps those who make the laws about stopping in crosswalks need to hear of your studies, until then...

Mid Block in terms that Grattan St is free flowing from Meadow St to McKinstry.
Mid Blocks create a yielding issue for motorists who typically do not expect the need to stop.
When the need is not present for a crosswalk it does become a safety concern and motorists become compliant by not stopping as they rarely to never see anyone cross. So when we do put a crosswalk in one of the concerns is ensuring motorists have the sight and stopping distance. There is no question mid block crosswalks have been put in the wrong places or there is no need for them. When we reconstruct roads most of these are removed due to not demonstrating the need.

What makes Grattan more " free flowing" than Dale, which runs from Montgomery to McKinstry in a similar manner, yet has multiple crosswalks in high pedestrian traffic areas? Is there any discussion between City and School Depts to designate safe areas for kids to wait for buses?

Kristin,
My meaning for free flowing is that Grattan is the main line versus the side streets. The volume on Grattan is far greater than the side streets. Rolf probably sees the most volume of the side streets around this area. Dale St is busy but not as busy as Grattan. Dale is also getting closer to two schools. There are 3 mid blocks on Dale. Dallaire and Rolf have mid blocks as well as one near Helene's Variety.

The school dept sets up the bus routing and pick-ups. I help them as they request. I am currently work on a school zone designation. I would like to see walking routes designated, reviewed for condition, ADA compliance, etc.

Please stay in touch as we look deeper into the Mary St crossing.

Is this still an issue that needs attention?

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